Pirates IF Kevin Kramer Destroys 'Mad Dog' Russo With Excellent Response
By Joe Birdsall
Pittsburgh Pirates infielder Kevin Kramer shut down Sirius XM sports personality Chris "Mad Dog" Russo on Twitter after the radio host ranted that MLB players who were underperforming in relation to their contracts had no right to comment on the league's recent labor strife.
Kramer, who has had stints with the Pirates in each of the last two seasons, has largely played in the minor leagues, but took offense to Russo's implication that only superstar players like Mike Trout and Gerrit Cole had a right to criticize MLB owners for their role in the ongoing labor dispute with the MLBPA.
Kramer came to the defense of players like Bryce Harper and Trevor Bauer, both of whom Russo criticized for landing big deals despite a perceived lack of accomplishments. He also lamented Russo's negative tone, as the radio host failed to mention the unique skills that players like Harper and Machado have exhibited throughout their careers.
Kramer concluded his tweet by calling out Russo's viewpoint on the labor negotiations, implying that if he was in the same position as the players, he would see things differently.
Kramer has repeatedly shown his support for the MLBPA on Twitter, retweeting other players who have been critical of MLB ownership. He also took a parting shot at Russo, retweeting a video of "Mad Dog" whiffing when trying to hit a ball off of a tee.
Mets pitcher Marcus Stroman sided with Kramer, calling for Russo's air time to be reduced and remarking that "he has to scream at the tops of his lungs" in order to get his point across. It appears that this fellow's feud with MLB players may be just beginning.